The Deeper Story of Matcha
Beyond the mania. A quiet space dedicated to the history, craft, and practice of matcha.
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Beyond “Ceremonial Matcha”: The Meaning of Shiro and Mukashi
If you want to get good matcha, you have to get ceremonial grade matcha, seems to be the usual advice. It is more of a sign of ignorance than knowledge, unfortunately. Walk into a traditional matcha producer’s store, have a look at their online offerings, and chances are you will find names that include “shiro”…
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Ippodo: Bringing the Heart of Kyoto’s Tea Culture to the World
While the finest matcha is grown in the fields of Uji, its cultural soul resides in the historic city of Kyoto. And for over 300 years, no name has been more synonymous with Kyoto’s refined tea culture than Ippodo (一保堂). Their iconic main store, a beautiful, traditional building nestled on Teramachi Street, is more than…
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Nakamura Tokichi: A Taste of Living History
In Uji, the historic heartland of Japanese tea, some producers are defined by their centuries-old connection to the tea ceremony. Others are known for their singular focus on the art of the blend. And then there is Nakamura Tokichi (中村藤吉本店), an institution that has become a living, breathing part of Uji’s cultural landscape itself. Founded…
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Marukyu Koyamaen: The Gold Standard of Uji Matcha
In any field of fine craft, there is a name that serves as the ultimate benchmark—a standard by which all others are measured. In the world of Uji matcha, that name is Marukyu Koyamaen (丸久小山園). With a history stretching back over 300 years, this family-run institution is not merely a producer; it is a cultural…
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The Keepers of the Craft: A Guide to Uji’s Legendary Matcha Producers
In the world of matcha, all roads lead to Uji. This small city south of Kyoto is not just a place; it is the very heart of matcha’s history and culture. For centuries, its unique terroir has produced the finest tea in Japan. But the region’s legendary status is not just a gift of nature.…
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From Monastery to Main Street: A Brief History of Matcha
Today, matcha is everywhere, but its roots run deep. Explore the fascinating history of this powdered green tea, from its origins in Song Dynasty China to its refinement by Japanese Zen monks and samurai.
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An Antidote to Matcha Mania
Matcha has played a role in my life ever since I became interested in Japan, got a chance to visit and experience a tea ceremony, and took some elements of this world into my life. As someone influenced by monastic traditions and with an academic, nerdy, orientation, my approach has been one of closer looks,…